How Permeable Pavers Solve Stormwater Problems
The complete guide to using permeable paving for municipal compliance, flood prevention, and environmental protection
Expert installation and design from Chicago's #1 sustainable paving contractor
The Stormwater Crisis in Urban Areas
Traditional paved surfaces create massive stormwater runoff problems. In Chicago's Western Suburbs, impervious surfaces like concrete driveways and patios send 100% of rainfall directly into already overwhelmed storm sewer systems.
The Problem with Traditional Paving
Environmental Impact:
- • 100% runoff from concrete surfaces
- • Pollutants wash directly into waterways
- • No groundwater recharge
- • Increased urban heat island effect
Property Issues:
- • Basement flooding from runoff
- • Foundation water damage
- • Municipal non-compliance fines
- • Overwhelmed drainage systems
Permeable pavers offer a revolutionary solution that transforms problem paved areas into part of the stormwater management solution. By allowing water to infiltrate directly through the paving surface, they eliminate runoff while creating beautiful, functional surfaces.
How Permeable Pavers Work
Rainfall Absorption
Rainwater enters through specially designed joints between pavers, absorbing up to 600 gallons per hour per 100 sq ft
Natural Filtration
Water filters through multiple layers of stone and aggregate, removing 90% of pollutants and sediments
Groundwater Recharge
Clean water slowly infiltrates into the ground, replenishing natural groundwater supplies
System Components
Permeable Pavers
UNILOCK Eco-Optiloc or similar high-quality permeable pavers
Joint Material
Specialized permeable joint sand that maintains infiltration
Bedding Layer
2" of clean, angular stone for paver support and drainage
Stone Reservoir
12-24" of open-graded stone for temporary water storage
Filter Fabric
Geotextile fabric prevents soil migration into stone
Stormwater Challenges & Solutions
Surface Runoff
Overwhelms storm sewers, causes flooding
Permeable Paver Solution:
Permeable pavers absorb 80% of rainfall on-site
Municipal Compliance
Fines and construction delays
Permeable Paver Solution:
Meet all EPA and local stormwater regulations
Erosion & Pollution
Soil loss and water quality degradation
Permeable Paver Solution:
Natural filtration removes 90% of pollutants
Flooding Prevention
Property damage and liability issues
Permeable Paver Solution:
Reduces peak flows by 65% during storms
Key Benefits of Permeable Pavers
Stormwater Reduction
Absorbs up to 80% of rainfall directly into the ground
Eliminates runoff from paved areas, reducing strain on municipal systems
Environmental Benefits
Natural groundwater recharge and pollution filtration
Filters harmful chemicals and sediments before they reach waterways
Property Protection
Prevents basement flooding and foundation damage
Reduces hydrostatic pressure and water accumulation around structures
Property Value
Increases home value with premium eco-friendly features
Modern buyers value sustainable design and reduced flooding risk
Regulatory Compliance
Meets all EPA and municipal stormwater requirements
Avoid fines and delays with approved stormwater management
Low Maintenance
Self-cleaning design requires minimal upkeep
Annual power washing maintains optimal infiltration rates
Applications & Investment
Residential Driveways
Replace impervious concrete with permeable pavers
Benefits:
- Eliminates driveway runoff
- Reduces street flooding
- Beautiful curb appeal
Patio & Walkway Areas
Create functional outdoor spaces that manage rainwater
Benefits:
- Multi-functional design
- Comfortable walking surface
- Integrated drainage
Commercial Parking
Large-scale stormwater management for businesses
Benefits:
- Municipal compliance
- Reduced runoff fees
- Professional appearance
Municipal Projects
City-wide solutions for stormwater infrastructure
Benefits:
- Reduced infrastructure costs
- Improved water quality
- Community benefits
Municipal Compliance & Regulations
Chicago Area Stormwater Requirements
Many municipalities in the Chicago area now require stormwater management for new construction and major renovations. Permeable pavers can help you meet these requirements while creating beautiful, functional surfaces.
Compliance Benefits:
- Meet EPA stormwater management requirements
- Qualify for reduced stormwater utility fees
- Avoid construction delays and permit issues
- Contribute to LEED and sustainability certifications
Required Documentation:
- • Professional engineering drawings
- • Infiltration rate testing results
- • Long-term maintenance plans
- • Municipal inspection certifications
We handle all documentation and municipal approvals for our permeable paver installations.
Professional Installation Process
Site Assessment & Design
Conduct soil infiltration testing, evaluate drainage patterns, and design system to handle site-specific stormwater volumes.
Permits & Municipal Approval
Handle all municipal permits, engineering approvals, and regulatory compliance documentation required for permeable paving installation.
Excavation & Base Preparation
Excavate to required depth, install stone reservoir system, bedding layers, and all necessary drainage components.
Paver Installation & Testing
Install permeable pavers with proper joint materials, conduct infiltration testing, and provide municipal inspection certifications.
Transform Your Property with Permeable Pavers
Get a free assessment and custom design for your permeable paving project. See how you can solve stormwater problems while creating beautiful surfaces.
✅ Free estimates • ✅ Municipal compliance • ✅ Licensed & insured • ✅ Sustainable solutions